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How to Build a Bird Box

By William Webb, About.com

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Introduction

Many bird species place their nests out in the open -- in trees and shrubs, or even on the ground. But some species prefer to nest in holes such as tree cavities. Instead of holes in trees or other natural cavities, some cavity-nesting birds will also use bird boxes. There are many different ways to build a nest box, and not all designs will appeal to all species. The following is a step-by-step description for building a bird box for the typical cavity-nesting bird, such as a House Finch.

Here's some of the equipment needed:

  • 1 inch-thick construction wood
  • Power saw or hand saw
  • Tape measure
  • 1" wood hinge
  • 1/2" wood screws (4)
  • 1.5" galvanized box nails (20)
  • Drill
  • 2" diameter drill bit
  • Hammer
  • Small phillips head screwdriver
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